Kind World

Kind World

WBUR

Kind World is a show about how a single act of kindness can change someone's life. In each episode, hosts and reporters Yasmin Amer and Andrea Asuaje search the world for good news stories that will restore your faith in humanity. A production of WBUR.

Kind World presents: "Beyond All Repair," a new podcast about an unsolved murder and a woman who wasn’t believed

Kind World presents: "Beyond All Repair," a new podcast about an unsolved murder and a woman who wasn’t believed

Introducing Beyond All Repair, a new WBUR podcast hosted by Amory Sivertson. This series tells the story of a murder, but also the woman who was accused of that murder, Sophia. Sophia was newly married and six months pregnant when she was charged with murdering her mother-in-law in 2002. She gave birth to a son in jail that she hasn’t seen since, and for the last three years, she’s been telling me her story in hopes of getting justice for her mother-in-law, of having a chance of meeting her son

Mar 9, 2024 • 25:28

Introducing ‘The Gun Machine’, a podcast about how America was forged by the gun industry

Introducing ‘The Gun Machine’, a podcast about how America was forged by the gun industry

Produced by WBUR, Boston’s NPR, in partnership with The Trace, The Gun Machine looks into the past to bring you a story that most Americans never learned in history class: how early partnerships between mad scientist gunsmiths and a fledgling U.S. government created the gun industry in the Northeast, and how that industry has been partners with the government ever since. Host Alain Stephens examines how this 250-year relationship underpins all Americans’ interactions with guns — including our

Oct 6, 2023 • 3:00

Kind World introduces Violation, a new podcast about who pulls the levers of power in the justice system

Kind World introduces Violation, a new podcast about who pulls the levers of power in the justice system

We want to share a first listen of a new podcast we're working on at WBUR. Violation tells the story of two families bound together by an unthinkable crime. It explores America's opaque parole system and asks: How much time in prison is enough? Who gets to decide? And, when someone commits a terrible crime, what does redemption look like?  Listen to the trailer and if you like what you hear, head over to the Violation feed wherever you get your podcasts and hit subscribe so you'll get new epis

Mar 15, 2023 • 3:36

Kind World Presents: Endless Thread's look into "Aunties:" abortion access advocates of Reddit

Kind World Presents: Endless Thread's look into "Aunties:" abortion access advocates of Reddit

Kind World presents Endless Thread's deep dive into Reddit's Auntie Network, an online community "dedicated to providing information and resources to those in need of abortion services." It has been inundated with new members since the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade was leaked in early May. Community members can offer rides, lodging, and emotional support for anyone seeking an abortion — especially when crossing state lines.

Jul 26, 2022 • 30:47

Kind World Presents: Endless Thread's look into the life and legacy of Bill Mays

Kind World Presents: Endless Thread's look into the life and legacy of Bill Mays

Remember those OxiClean commercials with the in-your-face pitchman? That was Billy Mays. Mays died years ago, but he’s lived on in meme form. Why? We ask his son Billy Mays III, his biggest frenemy, and a host of others to explain why someone who was squarely in the age of television continues to appear online in strange and provocative ways. It’s the story of an American staple whose consumerist existence belies a personality that, in the end, was surprisingly wholesome.

Nov 22, 2021 • 47:53

Kind World Presents: Selena And Me

Kind World Presents: Selena And Me

Today, we present the very first episode of Anything for Selena, a new podcast from WBUR and Futuro Studios. Growing up along the US-Mexico border, Maria Garcia felt torn between her two identities as Mexican and American. But then, something changed her life. She discovered Selena — the Mexican-American pop icon who proved she didn’t have to choose. In the premiere episode of “Anything for Selena,” host Maria Garcia explores how Selena helped Maria find her own place in the world.

Jan 19, 2021 • 30:42

Kind World Presents: Anything For Selena

Kind World Presents: Anything For Selena

Listen to the trailer for "Anything For Selena," a new podcast from WBUR and Futuro Studios coming in January 2021. Subscribe now so you don't miss it! About The Show: On March 31, 1995, nine-year-old Maria Garcia came home to find her mother glued to the TV, tears rolling down her rosy cheeks. The phone kept ringing. Relatives in Mexico and the States wanted to know if Maria’s family was watching, too. American networks and Mexican programming aired the same top story. Selena Quintanilla, the

Oct 29, 2020 • 4:53

Kind World Presents: Port Of Entry

Kind World Presents: Port Of Entry

The perception that the U.S.-Mexico border’s been effectively sealed shut because of the pandemic is wrong. Lots of people are still crossing. Actually, the biggest, most dramatic change in who can’t cross right now; you’re not going to find those folks at the official ports of entry. Instead, you have to look inside migrant shelters, at the refugees who can’t seek asylum in the U.S. right now and are instead stuck in border towns. So that's what we do today. We talk to a migrant stuck at the bo

Oct 23, 2020 • 25:21

Kind World Says Goodbye

Kind World Says Goodbye

Listen in as five Kind World producers discuss how the show has grown and evolved in its seven-year run.

Jul 30, 2020 • 17:35

Giving Can Make Us Happier

Giving Can Make Us Happier

Science says giving can make us happier than having more money. Psychologist Dr. Elizabeth Dunn suggests ways to rethink the way we give in order to make it feel like a source of joy rather than an obligation.

Jul 27, 2020 • 10:08

Encore: A Teacher's Aid

Encore: A Teacher's Aid

When Jenn Carson found out her father was a serial killer, she began to think she was doomed to follow a dark path. But then she met a teacher who helped her change her life forever through simple acts of kindness

Jul 23, 2020 • 14:47

The Surprising Benefits Of Raising Kind Kids

The Surprising Benefits Of Raising Kind Kids

Adam Grant, organizational psychologist at UPenn, says kids who are taught kindness and caring at an earlier age may be more likely to succeed as adults.

Jul 20, 2020 • 16:12

Encore: A Connecting Flight

Encore: A Connecting Flight

A chance meeting between a school volunteer and a Marine leads to a slew of unexpected acts of kindness. Plus, how small gifts and tokens from neighbors helped a mother and daughter as the young girl struggled with a mysterious illness.

Jul 17, 2020 • 12:58

Feeling Lonely? You're Not Alone.

Feeling Lonely? You're Not Alone.

Former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy shares with us the startling effects of chronic loneliness and how we can combat this public health crisis -- even in a socially distant world.

Jul 13, 2020 • 13:18

Encore: Love For The Least Loved

Encore: Love For The Least Loved

A man confronts his dark past and a random act of kindness that led to a 20-year philosophy.

Jul 9, 2020 • 13:39

Have More Meaningful Gatherings, Even During COVID

Have More Meaningful Gatherings, Even During COVID

Priya Parker is an expert on gatherings. She gives us tips on creating deeper social bonds and more collective meaning through our get-togethers.

Jul 6, 2020 • 14:06

A Chosen Family

A Chosen Family

Six years after their story, "A Second Mother To Me," originally aired on Kind World, we catch up with Michael Tambone and Frances Schmitz to talk about the importance and power of a "chosen family."

Jul 2, 2020 • 9:54

Kindness In Your World

Kindness In Your World

Our listeners share profound acts of kindness they've experienced throughout their lives, including how kind acts propelled a woman out of homelessness.

Jun 29, 2020 • 10:54

Encore: Stuck In Transit

Encore: Stuck In Transit

A man became stuck at an airport for 7 months and his only source of hope was a determined stranger. PLUS how a small town helped a family of refugees rebuild their chocolate empire.

Jun 25, 2020 • 14:22

A Serving Of Compassion

A Serving Of Compassion

Irene Li, the celebrated chef of Boston's Mei Mei, discusses her commitment to helping mom-and-pop restaurants and immigrant families survive during the pandemic. Plus, how a longtime customer helped a Los Angeles restaurant owner keep his business afloat as his sales plummet due to coronavirus.

Jun 22, 2020 • 12:34

Encore: The Rhythm Within

Encore: The Rhythm Within

A drumming teacher steps in and helps a troubled young immigrant find his identity in his new reality. Plus, how kindness and generosity in his early adulthood helped High Point University President Nido Qubein find strength and success.

Jun 18, 2020 • 14:09

Building A Village

Building A Village

A Connecticut man starts a donation challenge to feed local families in need during the coronavirus pandemic. Plus, a conversation with activist and authors Mia Birdsong on how we can build stronger, healthier and more equitable communities.

Jun 16, 2020 • 11:27

Walk With Shawn

Walk With Shawn

Shawn Dromgoole, a 29-year-old black man, said he was afraid to walk in his gentrifying Nashville neighborhood. Then came a response he never expected.

Jun 8, 2020 • 6:50

Playlist: The Kindness Of Healthcare Workers

Playlist: The Kindness Of Healthcare Workers

Healthcare workers are in the spotlight these days and getting recognized for their sacrifices during the pandemic. But for so many of them, that recognition is long overdue. Here are three of our favorite Kind World stories about how healthcare workers have gone above and beyond the call of duty to help their patients in deeply compassionate ways.

Jun 1, 2020 • 21:52

A Moment Of Kindness From Will

A Moment Of Kindness From Will

Will Bloemendaal, of Grand Rapids, Mich., tells us about witnessing a small but powerful act of integrity and kindness while on the bus.

May 28, 2020 • 2:23

More Than A Letter

More Than A Letter

Why a heartfelt thank-you letter from an 11-year-old to her mail carrier resonated with people across the country.

May 22, 2020 • 8:48

A Moment Of Kindness From Jessie

A Moment Of Kindness From Jessie

Jessie Spellman, of New York, N.Y., tells us about an emotional and unforgettable birthday surprise.

May 21, 2020 • 2:07

Bringing Generations Closer Together

Bringing Generations Closer Together

Stories of kindness that span across different generations.

May 18, 2020 • 20:36

A Moment Of Kindness From Anna

A Moment Of Kindness From Anna

Anna Baumgaertner, of Davie, Fla., tells us about a student performance that she calls the highlight of her year.

May 14, 2020 • 2:55

How To Find Peace In A Pandemic

How To Find Peace In A Pandemic

Dr. Laurie Santos, professor of psychologist at Yale University and host of the podcast, The Happiness Lab, gives us advice on practices we can all adopt as we cope with the anxiety of the coronavirus crisis.

May 11, 2020 • 15:28

A Moment Of Kindness From Carly

A Moment Of Kindness From Carly

Carly Shields, of Salt Lake City, Utah, tells us about the sweet ways her 3rd grade students are thinking about #COVIDKindness.

May 7, 2020 • 3:05

Celebrating Milestones

Celebrating Milestones

Finding creative ways to celebrate the class of 2020. Also, how a dedicated mentor changed one man's path.

May 4, 2020 • 13:03

A Moment Of Kindness From Kelly

A Moment Of Kindness From Kelly

Kelly Brooks, in Boston, Mass., called us to tell us about a project she's been working on to bring people together during the pandemic. The origins of her project date back to 2014 and a diagnosis that changed her life.

Apr 30, 2020 • 2:58

'There's Always Hope'

'There's Always Hope'

Voicemails about kindness during coronavirus from our listeners! Plus, a woman's quick trip to the grocery store turns into a nightmare as she becomes involved in a hostage crisis at a California Trader Joe's. Donate to support Kind World: www.wbur.org/supportkindworld

Apr 27, 2020 • 14:00

A Moment Of Kindness From Becca

A Moment Of Kindness From Becca

Becca Andrews had recently moved to New York City to pursue her acting dreams. One day, as she was riding the subway, she experienced a small act of kindness that would make a big difference.

Apr 23, 2020 • 2:47

Into The Desert

Into The Desert

CBS's Steve Hartman joins us to talk kindness during Coronavirus PLUS a story about finding solace in nature and new friends. If you are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741. www.wbur.org/supportkindworld

Apr 20, 2020 • 17:35

A Moment Of Kindness From Suzie

A Moment Of Kindness From Suzie

Suzie Hicks, of Los Angeles, tells us how her "chosen family" helped her one summer when a string of bad headaches turned into a serious medical condition.

Apr 16, 2020 • 2:18

A Shining Light

A Shining Light

How can worshippers come together during religious holidays during the coronavirus pandemic? Our latest #COVIDKindness update. Then, a story about how a friend's kind act assured a woman in a painful struggle that she would make it through the darkness.

Apr 13, 2020 • 14:24

A Moment Of Kindness From Andrea

A Moment Of Kindness From Andrea

...

Apr 9, 2020 • 2:33

The Power Of Love

The Power Of Love

We talk about creative ways people are dealing with social isolation during the pandemic. Also, a story about why one woman turned her house into a sanctuary for women in recovery.

Apr 6, 2020 • 14:37

A Moment Of Kindness From Angela

A Moment Of Kindness From Angela

...

Apr 3, 2020 • 1:51

Finding Hope By Giving Life

Finding Hope By Giving Life

In this week's #COVIDKindness update, we discuss help by and for medical professionals. Plus, how one man's search for a kidney donor brought him closer to a colleague and friend looking to restore her faith in patient care.

Mar 30, 2020 • 14:34

A Moment Of Kindness From Laura

A Moment Of Kindness From Laura

Laura Niverson, a high school English teacher in Tucson, Ariz., shared with us a story of how her students helped her as she was grieving a difficult loss.

Mar 26, 2020 • 2:04

#COVIDKindness & Building A Winning Team

#COVIDKindness & Building A Winning Team

Neighbors helping neighbors during the coronavirus crisis. Plus, the humble beginnings of a remarkable movement to educate generations of refugee children.

Mar 23, 2020 • 13:27

A Moment Of Kindness From Marianne

A Moment Of Kindness From Marianne

Marianne McCarthy, of New Haven, Conn., shares the story of a stranger who led her to safety during a crowded concert.

Mar 19, 2020 • 2:37

The Birthday Meal

The Birthday Meal

When Nancy Kinnally helped a young man living on the streets, she never imagined how meaningful a hot meal and a little hospitality could be.

Mar 16, 2020 • 17:30

A Moment Of Kindness From Mallory

A Moment Of Kindness From Mallory

Listener Mallory Van Fossen tells us about the time a complete stranger came to her rescue after an accident.

Mar 12, 2020 • 3:18

'I'll Never Cry Again'

'I'll Never Cry Again'

Nguyen Thi Dep was forced to give up her daughter during the Vietnam War. She spent decades searching for her, until a stranger decided to help.

Mar 9, 2020 • 13:37

More Good News: New Season Starts 3/10

More Good News: New Season Starts 3/10

We know there's a lot going on in the news, and sometimes, it's hard to see the good when so much seems bad. But here at Kind World, we know there are still compassionate people doing amazing things for others every day -- small good deeds and life-changing acts of kindness. Our new season starts March 10.

Feb 24, 2020 • 2:07

Kindness From Our ... Exes?

Kindness From Our ... Exes?

Breakups can involve complicated feelings and simmering resentments. But we asked some of our friends and colleagues to reflect back and think about the nice things their exes have done for them. We got some pretty great answers.

Feb 13, 2020 • 7:56

Returning A Family Treasure

Returning A Family Treasure

When a filmmaker bought an old VCR for a video project, he was surprised to find a VHS tape inside, featuring a remarkable family moment. He was determined to find the family in the video.

Feb 10, 2020 • 11:00

Glimmers Of Light Amid Darkness

Glimmers Of Light Amid Darkness

Edith Rubin, 91, survived the holocaust. More than 75 years after she was rescued from a Nazi camp, she remembers the rare moments of kindness she experienced during the darkest time in her life.

Jan 24, 2020 • 9:53

The "Thank You Project"

The "Thank You Project"

When Writer Nancy Davis Kho decided to spend an entire year writing "thank-you" letters, she didn't expect just how transformative it would be.

Jan 13, 2020 • 11:35

Holiday Playlist: The Gift Of Kindness

Holiday Playlist: The Gift Of Kindness

A collection of Kind World stories that showcase the power of a small but life-changing gift.

Dec 23, 2019 • 25:11

Teaching Kids To "Be Kind"

Teaching Kids To "Be Kind"

An author shares her thoughts on how kids can take an active role in creating a better world. Plus, we visit a children's book shop to check out some favorite stories about kindness.

Dec 19, 2019 • 13:49

'The Power Of Niceness'

'The Power Of Niceness'

Six years ago, Ruthy Brown answered Laura DiGeronimo's cry for help on Facebook, agreeing to clear her driveway piled high with snow. Neither woman expected the simple but significant act of kindness to change Laura's life dramatically for the better.

Dec 16, 2019 • 12:40

Kind World Presents: "Endless Thread"

Kind World Presents: "Endless Thread"

A slew of unexpected letters, one awesome invention, and an exceptionally kind Santa. These are some of the most heartwarming stories from Reddit - aka "the front page of the internet."

Dec 12, 2019 • 23:52

'The Bike Man'

'The Bike Man'

Bob Charland doesn't know how much time he has left to live. But he knows that while he's here, he wants to bring joy to as many kids as possible.

Dec 9, 2019 • 11:21

Kind World Presents: We Share The Same Sky

Kind World Presents: We Share The Same Sky

In 2017, Rachael Cerrotti shared her story with Kind World. This year, she released a podcast called "We Share The Same Sky," detailing her grandmother Hana's incredible story of survival -- and the journey Rachael took to learn every bit of it.

Dec 5, 2019 • 22:18

A Remarkable Family History

A Remarkable Family History

Rachael Cerrotti spent the last decade obsessing over her family history. She uncovered a remarkable story about her grandmother, Hana Dubova, who was the only person in her Jewish Czech family to survive the Holocaust.

Dec 2, 2019 • 14:42

Change Of Heart

Change Of Heart

Rais Bhuiyan was almost killed by a white supremacist. The hate-filled attack shattered his life. As Rais picked up the pieces, he then decided to do something extraordinary.

Nov 25, 2019 • 15:45

The Crash And The Camino

The Crash And The Camino

Mark Joseph Peredo and Luke Hutchins may have never crossed paths. But in the aftermath of a highway crash, the two men needed to find a different way to heal. They set off together to walk a centuries-old pilgrimage.

Nov 18, 2019 • 19:24

"Is Everything OK?"

"Is Everything OK?"

Lynn Schutzman had right education, the right job, and the right marriage. Then, she lost everything...until one day, someone asked her a life-changing question.

Nov 11, 2019 • 16:52

The Bugler's Salute

The Bugler's Salute

When Gary Marquardt attended a veteran’s funeral and heard a squeaky recording of taps honoring the fallen soldier, he was taken aback. Then he learned about an organization that aims to have a live bugler at every veteran’s memorial service.

Nov 4, 2019 • 15:39

The Road To Reconnection

The Road To Reconnection

When Chick McClure, a transgender man, began transitioning three years ago, he was terrified his father would reject him. Then one day, Chick got an unexpected call from his father.

Oct 28, 2019 • 23:48

Lifelines, Pt. 3: A Place Of Respite

Lifelines, Pt. 3: A Place Of Respite

A woman, who fled her country after a vicious attack, now helps other refugees overcome trauma.

Oct 21, 2019 • 15:20

Lifelines, Pt. 2: The Sidewalk School

Lifelines, Pt. 2: The Sidewalk School

Many of the migrants living at the Matamoros, Mexico border encampment are young children. To help them, Felicia Rangel-Samponaro began a makeshift school where the classes are led by asylum-seekers themselves.

Oct 11, 2019 • 22:23

Lifelines, Pt. 1: Wagons Of Hope

Lifelines, Pt. 1: Wagons Of Hope

We cross the southern border with a dedicated group of volunteers, who are the only source of food, clean water, and shelter for hundreds of asylum seekers.

Oct 7, 2019 • 18:20

Kind World Presents: 'Lifelines'

Kind World Presents: 'Lifelines'

Kind World Presents "Lifelines:' Stories of Compassion At The Southern Border.

Sep 30, 2019 • 1:29

Changing A Life Through Books

Changing A Life Through Books

Reading and a chance encounter with a former English teacher helped Dan Wise through what he called the scariest time in his life.

Sep 16, 2019 • 6:05

BONUS: The Wisdom Of The Moving Man

BONUS: The Wisdom Of The Moving Man

When we take stock of the people who matter most to us, there are the spouses, the family members, the best friends, the partners. And then there are the people who aren’t any of those things, but who change our lives anyway.

Aug 30, 2019 • 19:03

Expanding Boundaries Through Music

Expanding Boundaries Through Music

Classical Violinist David France came to realize that students from low-income backgrounds could excel just as much as wealthy ones, if they have the right teacher.

Aug 19, 2019 • 9:19

BONUS: One Kid's Extraordinary Summer

BONUS: One Kid's Extraordinary Summer

11-year-old Ruby asked residents at a nursing home to list their three wishes. What they said - and what she did next - surprised everyone.

Aug 5, 2019 • 8:34

A Sun That Keeps Shining

A Sun That Keeps Shining

Almost three years ago, Norah Wood, 6, helped Dan Peterson, 84, through his grief. Today, their friendship is still as strong as ever.

Jul 22, 2019 • 12:34

A Stranger's Rescue

A Stranger's Rescue

When Michael Connor saw a burning car on the side of the road, he stopped to see how he could help. He didn't expect to save a child's life seconds before a disaster.

Jul 15, 2019 • 13:32

A Sister, A Surrogate

A Sister, A Surrogate

In 2014, Melissa Turner went above and beyond the bond of sisterhood to become a surrogate for her identical twin, Jen. Five years since the birth of Jen's own twin girls, the sisters have experienced tremendous joy and unimaginable tragedy.

Jul 8, 2019 • 11:50

The Valedictorian

The Valedictorian

José Bou went from solitary confinement to college professor and youth mentor.

Jul 1, 2019 • 10:43

Finding Family After Seeking Asylum

Finding Family After Seeking Asylum

A young man fled his country for the U.S. after his life was threatened. He lost everything and spiraled into a deep depression. That's when a family stepped up to help him rebuild his life.

Jun 24, 2019 • 13:05

A Story Of Basketball, Friendship And Mental Health

A Story Of Basketball, Friendship And Mental Health

When David Pradel was going through a hard time, Nate Edwards was there to help. But David didn't know that Nate was suffering from depression, too.

Jun 17, 2019 • 23:05

Kids Fuel Scientific Breakthrough

Kids Fuel Scientific Breakthrough

Six years ago, Dylan Siegel thought of a way to help his friend living with a rare liver disease. Now, his idea is funding life-changing scientific research.

Jun 10, 2019 • 12:58

A Connecting Flight

A Connecting Flight

After a chance meeting on an airplane, school volunteer LynnEllen was inspired to help Timothy feel closer to home during his first deployment to Afghanistan. The letters he received were as unexpected as their meeting.

Jun 3, 2019 • 13:37

Rebuilding Lives Through Tiny Houses

Rebuilding Lives Through Tiny Houses

A couple forced into homelessness finds shelter and community in a tiny house village built by volunteers.

May 27, 2019 • 14:44

A Recipe For Renewal

A Recipe For Renewal

When Chef Rebecca Kelly-Manders met Quintin Storey, she knew he was perfect for her new culinary program catering to a special population: people with felony convictions. It's a population Rebecca and Quintin know intimately. They're both felons.

May 20, 2019 • 12:18

BONUS: A Conversation With Drummers Jonathan Mande And Jorge Perez-Albela

BONUS: A Conversation With Drummers Jonathan Mande And Jorge Perez-Albela

In "The Rhythm Within," we spoke to Jonathan Mande and Jorge Perez-Albela about how they developed a close bond through drumming. Here are some additional highlights from our conversation with them at the WBUR studios.

May 16, 2019 • 13:02

The Rhythm Within

The Rhythm Within

A boy from the Democratic Republic of Congo moves to Boston with his family after living through harrowing civil unrest. As he struggles in his new reality, a drumming teacher steps in and helps him find his identity.

May 13, 2019 • 13:36

Stand-In Mom

Stand-In Mom

Sara Cunningham struggled when her son told her he was gay. Now she volunteers as a stand-in mom at same-sex weddings when the biological parents refuse to attend.

May 6, 2019 • 13:52

An Adoption Calling Answered

An Adoption Calling Answered

A woman with a rare disease and her husband decide to expand their little family by adopting boys who all share the same rare disease she does.

Apr 29, 2019 • 12:24

Love For The Least Loved

Love For The Least Loved

Growing up in a violent and chaotic home almost pushed Aaron Stark to commit a mass shooting. He says the simple acts of kindness from his friends stopped him from making a horrible mistake.

Apr 22, 2019 • 14:05

Stuck in Transit

Stuck in Transit

A Syrian man is stuck at an airport terminal for months and a determined stranger makes it her mission to help him get out.

Apr 15, 2019 • 14:46

Trailer: new season starts April 16!

Trailer: new season starts April 16!

Kind World is a show about transformative acts of kindness. We've got stories that will inspire you, lift your spirit, and stories that may even make you tear up a little. Our new season begins April 16. Subscribe now and don't miss an episode.

Apr 9, 2019 • 1:21

All-Star Friendship

All-Star Friendship

Reporter Shirley Wang tells the story of her father, Lin Wang, a cat-litter scientist who befriended NBA Hall-of-Famer Charles Barkley.

Jan 8, 2019 • 15:36

After The Flood

After The Flood

Coach Kevin Motsinger was one of many North Carolinians displaced by Hurricane Florence earlier this year. Despite his own devastating losses, the 45-year-old high school football coach focused on rebuilding his small, rural town.

Jan 1, 2019 • 9:52

An Unbroken Record

An Unbroken Record

Iowa basketball player Jordan Bohannon had the perfect opportunity to break an existing free throw record and solidify his name in Iowa sports history. He decided to sacrifice it all for the sake of one family.

Dec 24, 2018 • 8:12

The Lift

The Lift

Community worker Cathy Heying realized that cars are the lifeline for many people with financial struggles. She decided to dedicate herself to helping others get that lifeline back.

Dec 17, 2018 • 6:41

A Priceless Collection

A Priceless Collection

A bereaved grandfather was looking for cards of his deceased son, who used to play in the MLB. When he reached out to an avid baseball card collector for help, he got way more than he ever expected.

Dec 10, 2018 • 7:17

The Teacher's Aid

The Teacher's Aid

When Jenn Carson found out her father was a serial killer, she thought she was doomed to follow a dark path. But then she met a teacher who could see "the goodness" in her.

Dec 3, 2018 • 10:49

More Than A Trim

More Than A Trim

Lenny White always wanted a job that would bring him purpose. After becoming a barber, he realized his trims could offer so much more to men with dementia.

Nov 26, 2018 • 5:27

The Marching Band

The Marching Band

Drew Bell knew he wanted to be in his high school's marching band even though he couldn't walk. A friend's act of kindness, and sacrifice, helped him do just that.

Nov 19, 2018 • 6:00

Aubree's Songs

Aubree's Songs

Baby Aubree was born nearly three months early and was diagnosed with a rare chromosomal disorder. One of her therapists helped her mother record songs to play to Aubree when her parents are away.

Nov 12, 2018 • 7:12

New Ink

New Ink

Much like addressing racism, covering a tattoo can be more complicated than getting the original.

Mar 1, 2018 • 7:34

The Betrayal

The Betrayal

“The ocean was one of the most important relationships in my life," Shannon Leone Fowler says. "Sometimes, the most important."

Feb 6, 2018 • 9:49

The Bridge

The Bridge

Julie Lindahl and Rachael Cerrotti of our previous two episodes meet, and a twist of fate changes everything for Rachael.

Dec 19, 2017 • 7:38

Refuge

Refuge

For Rachael Cerrotti, history keeps circling back to the present.

Dec 5, 2017 • 8:00

The Secret

The Secret

Julie Lindahl felt burdened by an indescribable guilt, a feeling she could never understand.

Nov 21, 2017 • 7:32

While I'm Here

While I'm Here

Bob doesn’t want a day to go by when he doesn’t help someone.

Nov 6, 2017 • 6:07

 Into The Sea

Into The Sea

As far as she knew, Roberta Ursrey and most of her family were about to die.

Oct 9, 2017 • 8:07

The Storm

The Storm

Willow was going to turn 3 the day Hurricane Irma hit Florida, but both birthday and hurricane were about to be overshadowed.

Sep 25, 2017 • 6:28

Turning Point

Turning Point

You must decide whether to do what you think is right -- but it means losing everything. What do you do?

Sep 12, 2017 • 8:02

Open Road

Open Road

10-year-old Phil's dreams were dark.

Aug 28, 2017 • 6:38

The Patient

The Patient

It was supposed to be a standard procedure. Then something went very wrong.

Aug 14, 2017 • 6:58

Almost Impossible

Almost Impossible

Jim Abbott was an improbable major league pitcher.

Jun 30, 2017 • 7:47

Four Bullets

Four Bullets

On a November night, Ted Hakey felt uneasy about his neighbors.

Jun 22, 2017 • 7:07

Dying Words

Dying Words

Alice's dad was losing his words, and then he had just two phrases left.

Jun 13, 2017 • 6:27

A Different Window

A Different Window

Bostonians aren’t always known for their friendly, helpful nature, but Blair Wong has discovered a very different side to the city’s inhabitants.

May 1, 2017 • 7:02

The Boy With Long Lashes

The Boy With Long Lashes

People ask Mohamed if he's crazy. He says he wouldn't live any other way.

Apr 11, 2017 • 4:57

When The Sun Came Out

When The Sun Came Out

Norah and Dan were an unlikely pair.

Mar 27, 2017 • 6:59

A Beginning

A Beginning

When President Trump signed an executive order in January, one family feared their daughter's life was at stake.

Mar 14, 2017 • 8:19

So Much More

So Much More

The story begins with an open wound.

Feb 28, 2017 • 6:30

Secret Sisters

Secret Sisters

They didn't all know each other, but they knew their friend needed help.

Dec 20, 2016 • 7:44

Pick Up The Soap

Pick Up The Soap

After a breakup left Laura in rough shape, Ruthy and Bill stepped up to pick her up.

Dec 13, 2016 • 7:09

Bonding In A Checkout Line

Bonding In A Checkout Line

“The moment in the grocery store will just be something that I’ll always remember,” Suzie Skougard says.

Dec 6, 2016 • 7:45

The Portrait

The Portrait

Michael Reagan turned his life upside down to draw portraits of service people who died in Iraq or Afghanistan. Four thousand portraits later, he finally understood why.

Sep 20, 2016 • 6:44

The Heartbeat

The Heartbeat

The gift a father thought he didn’t want ended up being exactly what he needed.

Sep 6, 2016 • 5:25

The Judge And The Jail

The Judge And The Jail

A judge in North Carolina came up with an unusual way to enforce the law. His unorthodox decision ended up having a huge impact on one veteran’s life.

Aug 30, 2016 • 7:13

The Little Giant

The Little Giant

When Curtis Bishop was homeless, most people looked right past him. One stranger reached out in the middle of a food court and helped change his life.

Aug 23, 2016 • 5:48

Finding James

Finding James

James Carlsen's guitar never left his side until he sold it to feed his heroin addiction.

May 12, 2016 • 7:50

For All To See

For All To See

Ever dream about finding yourself naked in a crowd?

May 5, 2016 • 6:05

Imprint

Imprint

Deborah Greene was on a routine grocery run at Whole Foods when her brother called with terrible news.

Apr 28, 2016 • 7:27

Soar

Soar

Years after a car accident partially paralyzed her, Lauren Watson saw an aerial acrobatics demonstration in a local mall and decided she needed to learn it herself.

Apr 21, 2016 • 6:20

So Chocolate Bar

So Chocolate Bar

Watching his friend cope with a rare liver disease, Dylan Siegel was determined to help. So he set out to raise $1 million for research.

Apr 14, 2016 • 7:23

Not Just Some History

Not Just Some History

Joel Obermayer has recently come to see his father in a new light -- and learned that one of his father's projects helped grow a web of people around the world.

Dec 24, 2015 • 7:22

That Way Madness Lies

That Way Madness Lies

When she took her seat for a performance of King Lear one Saturday night, Barb Cone had no idea what enormous significance it would have for her 48 hours later.

Dec 17, 2015 • 8:16

She Remembers It All

She Remembers It All

Tragedy brought two women together. Now memories keep them close.

Dec 4, 2015 • 7:52

Kind World To Go: A Thanksgiving Special

Kind World To Go: A Thanksgiving Special

Here's a downloadable Kind World playlist that will put you in the mood to give thanks.

Nov 25, 2015 • 30:41

Off The List

Off The List

Sasha Chanoff was in his mid-20s when he faced an urgent decision unlike any he'd encountered before - and more than 100 lives depended on it.

Nov 24, 2015 • 7:59

#17: The Goodness Deep Within

#17: The Goodness Deep Within

Max Evans lived on the streets of Boston near the New England Aquarium, making his bed between two jersey barriers each night. He was known for being gruff, feisty, and unkempt, but these traits belied an inner graciousness and sincerity that touched many of those around him.

Apr 9, 2015 • 4:29

In Lovers' Quarrel, A Stranger Intervenes

In Lovers' Quarrel, A Stranger Intervenes

Janne Vanessche and her boyfriend were fighting - a lovers' quarrel. The argument was over something trivial, but, to an outsider, things may have looked serious. When Janne fled to a nearby park to let off steam, she was surprised to hear an unfamiliar voice call out to her.

Mar 12, 2015 • 4:15

Sister Sue, The Nun At The County Jail

Sister Sue, The Nun At The County Jail

Sister Sue Kintzele's phone number is written on the wall near the pay phone at the county jail. When prisoners can't make bail, they tell their family to call Sister Sue.

Feb 26, 2015 • 4:16

A Town Rallies For Hikers In Need

A Town Rallies For Hikers In Need

Nearing the end of her months-long hike of the Pacific Crest Trail, Brittany Goodson began to panic. Days of unrelenting rain had soaked her gear, and hypothermia threatened. Brittany and dozens of other hikers were forced off the trail, and eventually found their way to the only nearby town - the tiny community of Trout Lake, Washington.

Jan 28, 2015 • 5:43

Kind World #13: 'Take Me Back To Venice'

Kind World #13: 'Take Me Back To Venice'

As Parkinson’s disease worsened for Bernard Michaels, his family took him on a final trip to Europe. Early in the trip, a slip in Venice, Italy landed him in the hospital. His daughter, Sonia, set out with a collapsible wheelchair to meet him, but seventeen staired footbridges, slick with rain, stood between them. Fortunately, others took notice.

Jan 15, 2015 • 5:43

The Turner Girls

The Turner Girls

Jen Turner had always wanted to be a mom. But when she developed macular edema, an eye disease, doctors warned her that pregnancy could result in permanent loss of sight. Seeing her sister's distress, Jen's identical twin, Mel, made an unconventional proposal.

Dec 24, 2014 • 5:44

A House, Now A Home

A House, Now A Home

Everything seemed to be going wrong in Maureen Festa's life. Her marriage was ending, her mother was dying, and she faced having to leave the neighborhood she loved. She'd learned of a potential new apartment just down the street, but, on the day she'd planned to see it, she lost her job. To her surprise, the apartment's landlord gave her reason to hope.

Dec 10, 2014 • 4:09

A Stranger Asks, 'Why Not Me?'

A Stranger Asks, 'Why Not Me?'

Dr. Ferenc Jolesz's kidneys were failing fast. The estimated wait time for a cadaver transplant was five to 10 years. He didn't have that kind of time. But an article in the local paper led a stranger to ask, "Why not me?"

Nov 27, 2014 • 6:28

'A Second Mother To Me'

'A Second Mother To Me'

Every year at De Smet Jesuit High School in St. Louis, Missouri, students gather for a mother/son Mass and breakfast. Having lost his mom in middle school, Michael Tambone hadn’t attended the event. But in his Junior year, Frances Schmitz, a friend's mother, asked Michael if he’d like to go with her and her son.

Nov 20, 2014 • 5:11

Strangers At The Airport

Strangers At The Airport

Emily Proctor was traveling to Florida to visit a friend in need. When a thunderstorm caused her to miss a connecting flight, it looked like she'd be spending the night in the airport. That's when a stranger wrapped an arm around her, saying everything would be okay.

Nov 13, 2014 • 3:54

A Small Act Of Grace

A Small Act Of Grace

When Maureen O'Rourke's father was dying from Alzheimer's, she vowed to stay with him until the end. Death seemed imminent, but days turned into weeks, and Maureen contemplated leaving her father's side. That's when a small gesture from a nurse gave her the strength to stay one more night.

Nov 6, 2014 • 4:29

An Ordinary, Beautiful Life

An Ordinary, Beautiful Life

Shelagh Gordon was another name in the obituaries, an ordinary woman who had died suddenly of a massive brain aneurysm at the age of 55. But something in her obituary stood out to a journalist at the Toronto Star. For weeks, Catherine Porter had been combing the paper, looking to profile an ordinary person through the perspectives of the family and friends he or she had left behind. What emerged was an extraordinary portrait.

Jan 8, 2014 • 7:02

A Place That's Safe

A Place That's Safe

How far would you go to a help a person in need? When Ron Jones, of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, got to know a young couple who were struggling and learned about their background, he made the decision that money alone would not be enough to truly make a difference in their lives.

Dec 25, 2013 • 5:17

Reddit Sends Its Love

Reddit Sends Its Love

Scott Widak had a smile for everyone and an open heart. When he became terminally ill, his nephew took to Reddit, asking the online community to send letters to his uncle with Down syndrome and listing some of his eclectic interests. Scott's story resonated around the world, with hundreds and hundreds of letters coming in, each recognizing something special about Scott that had resonated with the sender.

Dec 18, 2013 • 9:07

Remembering Karim

Remembering Karim

Karim Alagha worked for 25 years at a gas station in Cambridge. He was immensely loving and deeply empathetic; he asked people how they felt and truly listened to their answers. Over time, a community formed around Karim and the station. An invisible community that was not even aware of itself until Karim fell sick.

Dec 11, 2013 • 6:19

A Minister's Challenge

A Minister's Challenge

Reverend Nathan Detering is minister at the First Parish Unitarian Universalist Area Church in Sherborn, Massachusetts. Last holiday season, he tried an experiment with his congregation — “reverse offering,” where instead of members donating money to the church, they were given money instead.

Dec 3, 2013 • 4:34

When The Parachute Failed

When The Parachute Failed

A skydiving instructor in Texas, David Hartsock, was making his last jump for the day. His student was Shirley Dygert, a 54-year-old wife and grandmother who was jumping for the first time. When everything went wrong, Hartsock determined that there was no way they could both survive the fall, and there was only one way for either of them to survive.

Nov 26, 2013 • 8:26

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